Bittersweet Justice: Oklahoma-Raymond Palmer 2008 Child Death

Occasionally, there is justice for those negatively affected by the child welfare and adoption systems. Unfortunately, it is usually bittersweet and much too late. This section will serve as REFORM Talk’s justice files.

From Ardmore, Oklahoma, Tamara Ely, mother of Raymond Palmer who died in foster care at age 19 months on June 28, 2008, received $400,000 to settle her lawsuit against DHS and the foster parents.

After 4 months in the care of Dale and Darla Owen, Raymond was run over by a pickup truck in a pasture.

“Two weeks before the death, a Chickasaw Nation child welfare worker had visited the home and found no adults supervising the foster children, records show. The worker’s supervisor reported the concerns to DHS, records show.

Raymond and his sister were among seven children at the foster home, DHS said. A DHS investigation confirmed child neglect, DHS said. No criminal charges were filed.”

“At the time of the accident, Dale Owen and some of his friends had been drinking a few beers and watching their children swim at a pond, DHS said.”

Source of the settlements

DHS — from state’s self-insurance liability funds.

Foster Parents — from foster parent liability insurance policy paid for by the state

Driver of the pickup, Heath Claborn — separate, undisclosed settlement with the driver’s auto insurance

DHS, Foster Parents Settle Lawsuit Over Foster Child’s Death
[The Oklahoman 3/18/11 by Nolan Clay]